Apparatus and methods for non-invasively measuring a patient&#39;s arterial blood pressure

ABSTRACT

Improved apparatus and methods for non-invasively assessing one or more hemodynamic parameters associated with the circulatory system of a living organism. In one aspect, the invention comprises an apparatus adapted to automatically and accurately place and maintain a sensor (e.g., tonometric pressure sensor) with respect to the anatomy of the subject. The apparatus comprised of a sensor device removably coupled to an actuator which is used to position the sensor during measurements. Methods for positioning the alignment apparatus and sensor, and operating the apparatus, are also disclosed.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent applicationSer. No. 60/998,632 filed Oct. 12, 2007 of the same title, which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for monitoringparameters associated with fluid systems, and specifically in one aspectto the non-invasive monitoring of arterial blood pressure in a livingsubject.

2. Description of Related Art

The accurate measurement of physiological parameters from a livingsubject has long been sought by medical science. One such area ofparticular importance is the non-invasive, continuous measurement ofblood pressure and/or other hemodynamic parameters. The availability ofsuch measurement techniques would allow the caregiver to continuouslymonitor a subject's parameters (e.g., blood pressure) accurately and inrepeatable fashion without the use of invasive arterial catheters(commonly known as “A-lines”) in any number of settings including, forexample, surgical operating rooms where continuous, accurate indicationsof true blood pressure are often essential.

Several well known techniques have heretofore been used tonon-invasively monitor a subject's arterial blood pressure waveform,namely, auscultation, oscillometry, and tonometry. Both the auscultationand oscillometry techniques use a standard inflatable arm cuff thatoccludes the subject's brachial artery. The auscultatory techniquedetermines the subject's systolic and diastolic pressures by monitoringcertain Korotkoff sounds that occur as the cuff is slowly deflated. Theoscillometric technique, on the other hand, determines these pressures,as well as the subject's mean pressure, by measuring actual pressurechanges that occur in the cuff as the cuff is deflated. Both techniquesdetermine pressure values only intermittently, because of the need toalternately inflate and deflate the cuff, and they cannot replicate thesubject's actual blood pressure waveform. Thus, true continuous,beat-to-beat blood pressure monitoring cannot be achieved using thesetechniques.

Occlusive cuff instruments of the kind described briefly above havegenerally been somewhat effective in sensing long-term trends in asubject's blood pressure. However, such instruments generally have beenineffective in sensing short-term blood pressure variations, which areof critical importance in many medical applications, including surgery.

The technique of arterial tonometry is also well known in the medicalarts. According to the theory of arterial tonometry, the pressure in asuperficial artery with sufficient bony support, such as the radialartery, may be accurately recorded during an applanation sweep when thetransmural pressure equals zero. The term “applanation” refers generallyto the process of varying the pressure applied to the artery. Anapplanation sweep refers to a time period during which pressure over theartery is varied from overcompression to undercompression or vice versa.At the onset of a decreasing applanation sweep, the artery isovercompressed into a “dog bone” shape, so that pressure pulses are notrecorded. At the end of the sweep, the artery is undercompressed, sothat minimum amplitude pressure pulses are recorded. Within the sweep,it is assumed that an applanation occurs during which the arterial walltension is parallel to the tonometer surface. Here, the arterialpressure is perpendicular to the surface and is the only stress detectedby the tonometer sensor. At this pressure, it is assumed that themaximum peak-to-peak amplitude (the “maximum pulsatile”) pressureobtained corresponds to zero transmural pressure.

One prior art device for implementing the tonometry technique includes arigid array of miniature pressure transducers that is applied againstthe tissue overlying a peripheral artery, e.g., the radial artery. Thetransducers each directly sense the mechanical forces in the underlyingsubject tissue, and each is sized to cover only a fraction of theunderlying artery. The array is urged against the tissue, to applanatethe underlying artery and thereby cause beat-to-beat pressure variationswithin the artery to be coupled through the tissue to at least some ofthe transducers. An array of different transducers is used to ensurethat at least one transducer is always over the artery, regardless ofarray position on the subject. This type of tonometer, however, issubject to several drawbacks. First, the array of discrete transducersgenerally is not anatomically compatible with the continuous contours ofthe subject's tissue overlying the artery being sensed. This hashistorically led to inaccuracies in the resulting transducer signals. Inaddition, in some cases, this incompatibility can cause tissue injuryand nerve damage and can restrict blood flow to distal tissue.

Other prior art techniques have sought to more accurately place a singletonometric sensor laterally above the artery, thereby more completelycoupling the sensor to the pressure variations within the artery.However, such systems may place the sensor at a location where it isgeometrically “centered” but not optimally positioned for signalcoupling, and further typically require comparatively frequentre-calibration or repositioning due to movement of the subject duringmeasurement. Additionally, the methodology for proper initial andfollow-on placement is awkward, essentially relying on the caregiver tomanually locate the optimal location for sensor placement on the subjecteach time, and then mark that location (such as by keeping their fingeron the spot, or alternatively marking it with a pen or other markinginstrument), after which the sensor is placed over the mark.Alternatively, some prior art techniques rely on additional sensingelements and associated apparatus for positioning the sensor.Utilization of additional apparatus results in increased costs andadditional steps for implementing the technology.

Prior art tonometry systems are also commonly quite sensitive to theorientation of the pressure transducer on the subject being monitored.Specifically, such systems show degradation in accuracy when the angularrelationship between the transducer and the artery is varied from an“optimal” incidence angle. This is an important consideration, since notwo measurements are likely to have the device placed or maintained atprecisely the same angle with respect to the artery. Many of theforegoing approaches similarly suffer from not being able to maintain aconstant angular relationship with the artery regardless of lateralposition, due in many cases to positioning mechanisms which are notadapted to account for the anatomic features of the subject, such ascurvature of the wrist surface.

Another deficiency of prior art non-invasive hemodynamic measurementtechnology relates to the lack of disposability of components associatedwith the device. Specifically, it is desirable to make portions of thedevice which may (i) be contaminated in any fashion through direct orindirect contact with the subject(s) being monitored); (ii) bespecifically calibrated or adapted for use on that subject; (iii) losecalibration through normal use, thereby necessitating a more involvedrecalibration process (as opposed to simply replacing the component withan unused, calibrated counterpart), or (iv) disposable after one or alimited number of uses. This feature is often frustrated in prior artsystems based on a lack of easy replacement of certain components (i.e.,the components were not made replaceable during the design process), ora prohibitively high cost associated with replacing components that arereplaceable. Ideally, certain components associated with a non-invasivehemodynamic assessment device would be readily disposable and replacedat a very low cost to the operator.

Yet another disability of the prior art concerns the ability to conductmultiple hemodynamic measurements on a subject at different times and/ordifferent locations. For example, where blood pressure measurements arerequired in first and second locations (e.g., the operating room andrecovery room of a hospital), prior art methodologies necessitate either(i) the use of an invasive catheter (A-line), (ii) transport of theentire blood pressure monitoring system between the locations, or (iii)disconnection of the subject at the first monitoring location,transport, and then subsequent connection to a second blood pressuremonitoring system at the second location.

The disabilities associated with invasive catheters are well understood.These include the need to perforate the subject's skin (with attendantrisk of infection), and discomfort to the subject.

Transport of the entire blood pressure monitoring system is largelyuntenable, due to the bulk of the system and the desire to maintainmonitoring equipment indigenous to specific locations.

Disconnection and subsequent reconnection of the subject is alsoundesirable, since it requires placing a sensor or apparatus on thepatient's anatomy a second time, thereby necessitating recalibration,and reducing the level of confidence that the measurements taken at thetwo different locations are in fact directly comparable to one another.Specifically, since the sensor and supporting apparatus is physicallywithdrawn at the first location, and then a new sensor subsequentlyplaced again on the subject's tissue at the second location, thelikelihood of having different coupling between the sensor and theunderlying blood vessel at the two locations is significant. Hence,identical intra-vascular pressure values may be reflected as twodifferent values at the different locations due to changes in coupling,calibration, sensor parameters, and related factors, thereby reducingthe repeatability and confidence level associated the two readings.

Additionally, in the prior art, the sensor is often electricallyconnected to an actuator other host device via an external electricalconnection via a cable or “pigtail”. Such connection apparatus addsadditional costs and complexity to the system.

Based on the foregoing, there is a need for an improved apparatus andmethodology for accurately, continuously, and non-invasively measuringparameters (such as for example those associated with the hemodynamicsystem) associated with a living subject. Such improved apparatus andmethodology would ideally allow for prompt and accurate initialplacement of the sensor(s) (e.g., a tonometric pressure sensor,ultrasonic sensor, etc.) without requiring additional alignmentapparatus or elements, while also providing robustness and repeatabilityof placement under varying patient physiology and environmentalconditions. Such apparatus would also incorporate low-cost anddisposable components.

Such apparatus and methods would furthermore be substantiallyself-aligning and calibrating (i.e., automatically place itself and“zero” itself) with respect to a patient. Ease of use would also beconsidered.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention satisfies the aforementioned needs by an improvedapparatus and methods for non-invasively and continuously assessinghemodynamic properties, including arterial blood pressure, within aliving subject.

In a first aspect of the invention, an apparatus adapted to measure atleast one hemodynamic parameter of a living subject is disclosed. Theapparatus is comprised in one embodiment of a sensor assembly adapted tosubstantially conform to the anatomy of the subject. This isaccomplished via a frame comprising a conforming element and ahemodynamic pressure sensor element coupled to the frame. In onevariant, the pressure sensor element is coupled to the frame by aflexible support structure. In another variant, the sensor elementfurther comprises an electrical interface adapted for directsimultaneous mating with a corresponding connector of an actuator whenthe sensor element is mechanically mated to the actuator.

In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a substantially conformalframe; and

a sensor element, the sensor element coupled to the frame by an at leastpartly flexible support structure. The sensor element further comprisesan electrical interface, and the sensor element is configured so as toform an electrical connection with a corresponding electrical interfaceof a host device simultaneously during mating of the sensor element tothe host device.

In one variant, the sensor element comprises a blood pressure sensor,and further comprises: a biasing element; a pressure transducer; aplurality of electrical conductors disposed on at least one printedcircuit board and adapted to electrically interface with the hostdevice; and a housing element adapted to encase at least a portion ofthe sensor element.

In another variant, the housing element comprises a substantiallypyramid-shaped portion, at least a portion of the electrical conductorsbeing disposed thereon.

In a further variant, the host device comprises an actuator, and the atleast partly flexible support structure comprises a plurality of atleast partly arcuate linkages.

In yet another variant, the mating of the sensor element to the hostdevice is facilitated via one or more retention features on the frameand the sensor element.

In another variant, the frame has a substantially smaller surface areaon a radial side than on an ulnar side when disposed on the subject.

In still another variant, the frame further comprises a substantiallycompliant foam backing having at least one adhesive surface adapted toadhere to tissue of the subject.

In another variant, the assembly comprises apparatus adapted tofacilitate alignment of the sensor element above an artery of thesubject without the use of an external alignment apparatus.

In another embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus comprises: asupport element, comprising a conforming element adapted tosubstantially conform to the anatomy of the subject; and a sensingapparatus flexibly coupled to the support element, the sensing apparatuscomprising a combined electrical and mechanical interface, the sensingapparatus adapted to be at least initially aligned into position over anartery of the living subject without utilizing any additional alignmentapparatus. The combined electrical and mechanical interface comprisesone or more features adapted to mate the sensing apparatus to a hostdevice.

In one variant, the combined interface of the sensing apparatus compriseat least a plurality of electrical conductors disposed on at least oneprinted circuit board.

In another variant, the support element further comprises an alignmentelement adapted to assist in the alignment of the sensing apparatus overthe artery, and the alignment element comprises at least one arrow, thearrow being adapted to align with at least a point associated with anartery of the subject.

In yet another variant, the sensing apparatus is flexibly coupled to thesupport element via (i) a substantially resilient suspension loopencircling at least a portion of the sensing apparatus, and (ii) one ormore associated suspension arms joining the loop to the support element.

In a further variant, the apparatus further comprises a second supportelement adapted to stabilize the sensing apparatus.

In still another embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus comprises: asensor assembly comprising: a biasing element; a pressure sensor; and aconnector adapted to electrically connect to a recessed portion of asensor assembly actuator; and a substantially flexible frame elementadapted to: flexibly support the sensor assembly, the support furtherenabling the sensor assembly to be moved by an actuator substantiallywithin the frame element; at least partly conform to the anatomy of thesubject proximate the blood vessel; and provide an optical alignmentfeature to aid an operator in placing the apparatus on the subject.

In one variant, the sensor assembly further comprises a multi-layeredhousing element, the housing element adapted to encase at least aportion of the connector, and the electrical connection between theconnector and the actuator is accomplished via one or more friction fitfeatures disposed on the housing element or the frame.

In another variant, the connector comprises a plurality of electricalconductors disposed on a printed circuit board and adapted toelectrically connect with electrical components of the recessed portionof the actuator.

In yet another variant, the sensor assembly further comprises asubstantially compliant contact material adapted to interface between anactive surface of the transducer and tissue of the subject.

In still a further variant, the sensor assembly is physically connectedto the frame element by at least one substantially flexible serpentinearm.

In a second aspect of the invention, hemodynamic sensor is disclosed. Inone embodiment, the sensor comprises a substantially oval orelliptically shaped sensor having a pressure sensor, one or moreelectronic data storage devices, and an electrical interface to a parentdevice (e.g., actuator). The sensing face of the sensor is substantiallycovered with a pliable material (e.g., silicone-based compound) thatcouples the sensor active area to the subject's skin surface.

In another embodiment, the sensor apparatus comprises: a biasingelement; a pressure sensor; a connector, the connector comprising: oneor more electronic data storage devices; and a sensor electricalinterface adapted to electrically connect to a corresponding electricalinterface that is disposed at least partly within a recessed portion ofa host device; and a housing element adapted to enclose at least aportion of the electrical interface. The sensor electrical interface isadapted to mate with the corresponding interface simultaneously duringthe mechanical mating of the sensor apparatus to the host device.

In one variant, the sensor electrical interface is comprised of aplurality of electrical conductors disposed on at least one printedcircuit board and formed into a substantially pyramidal shape.

In another variant, the mechanical mating comprises frictional couplingof one or more features disposed on the housing element with one or morecorresponding features disposed on the host device.

In a further variant, the sensor apparatus is substantially ellipticallyshaped.

In still another variant, a sensing face of the sensor is substantiallycovered with a pliable material adapted to couple the sensing face thesurface of the skin of a living subject.

In a third aspect of the invention, apparatus for non-invasivelymeasuring the pressure in a subject's blood vessel is disclosed. In onevariant, the apparatus comprises: a sensor, and support element, and anactuator apparatus. The actuator apparatus couples to the supportelement and the sensor, the latter being movably coupled to theactuator. In another variant, a second support element is used tofurther stabilize the actuator. This second element may comprise forexample an arm brace or similar structure.

In a fourth aspect of the invention, a method of operating an apparatusis disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a hemodynamicassessment apparatus, and the method comprises: disposing a sensorproximate to a blood vessel; coupling an actuator to the sensor;calibrating the sensor; and measuring the hemodynamic parameter. In onevariant, the sensor is disposed onto the subject's anatomy using adisposable support element which is movably coupled to the sensor. Theactuator can be electrically and mechanically coupled simply by“snapping” the actuator into place on the support element.

In another embodiment, the method comprises: disposing a sensorproximate to a blood vessel of the subject, the sensor beingsubstantially supported by a flexible coupling to a support element;coupling an actuator to the sensor; calibrating the sensor; andmeasuring the one or more hemodynamic parameters. The coupling compriseselectrically and mechanically coupling the sensor to the actuator in asingle user action. In one variant, the act of disposing comprisesdisposing the support element such that the sensor is generallyproximate the blood vessel.

In another variant, the act of calibrating comprises using a positioningalgorithm to adjust the position of the sensor with respect to the bloodvessel so that the measuring is substantially optimized.

In a fifth aspect of the invention, a method of measuring one or morephysiologic parameters of a living subject is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method comprises: disposing at least one sensor elementon the subject; mating the sensor element to a host device; using thehost device to automatically position the sensor element at a prescribedmonitoring location, and calibrate the sensor element; and measuring theone or more parameters of the subject using the sensor element.

In one variant, the act of positioning the sensor element furthercomprises automatically zeroing the sensor with respect to the placementof the sensor element on the subject. The automatic zeroing comprisesfor example at least one of: checking for a quiescent state comprising asubstantially steady sensor electrical output; and retracting the sensoraway from tissue of the living subject, and performing one or moresample applanation functions.

In another variant, the mating of the host device with the sensorelement comprises simultaneously forming both electrical and mechanicalconnections.

In still another variant, the method further comprises: decoupling thehost device from the sensor element; re-mating the host device and thesensor element after a period of time; and obtaining second measurementsof the one or more hemodynamic parameters of the subject without havingto recalibrate the sensor element.

In another variant, the method further comprises determining whether asensor element is coupled to the host device by at least: attempting tocouple the sensor to the host device; and evaluating whether propermechanical and electrical coupling has been achieved by evaluating thepresence of an electrical attribute associated with the sensor element.The attribute comprises for example at least one of: determining whetherelectrical continuity between the sensor element and host device exists;or attempting to access a storage device on the sensor element usingcircuitry in the host device.

In a sixth aspect of the invention, a method of providing treatment isdisclosed.

In a seventh aspect of the invention a method, of determining whether asensor element is coupled to an actuator element is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method comprises: attempting to couple the sensor to theactuator; and evaluating whether proper mechanical and electricalcoupling has been achieved by evaluating the presence of an electricalattribute associated with the sensor. In one variant, the attributecomprises determining whether electrical continuity between the sensorand actuator exists. In another variant, the attribute comprisesattempting to access a storage device on the sensor using circuitry inthe actuator.

In an eighth aspect of the invention, a method of positioning at leastone sensor with respect to the anatomy of a living subject. In oneembodiment, the method comprises: providing the at least one sensor;determining a general location for disposal of the at least one sensor;disposing the at least one sensor at the general location using only analignment apparatus that is coupled to the at least one sensor; couplingthe at least one sensor to an actuator; and adjusting the generallocation of the at least one sensor using the actuator.

In one variant, the adjusting comprises implementing a position locationalgorithm. For example, the position location algorithm comprises atleast one of: checking for a quiescent state having a substantiallysteady sensor output; or retracting the sensor and performing one ormore applanation functions.

In another variant, the act of determining a general location fordisposal of the at least one sensor comprises manually locating anartery of the subject.

In a ninth aspect of the invention, a method and apparatus for automaticzeroing of the hemodynamic assessment apparatus are disclosed.

These and other features of the invention will become apparent from thefollowing description of the invention, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of thehemodynamic assessment apparatus of the present invention, shown withsensor assembly coupled to the top portion of the actuator assembly.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of the sensorassembly used with the apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 a is an illustration of one exemplary embodiment of the fullyencapsulated sensor connector assembly.

FIG. 2 b is an illustration of the sensor connector of the exemplaryembodiment of the sensor connector assembly of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 c is an illustration of the sensor connector of the exemplaryembodiment of the sensor connector assembly mounted on a printed circuitboard with a pressure sensor and a storage device (e.g., EEPROM).

FIG. 2 d is an illustration of the sensor connector, pressure sensor andEEPROM of the exemplary embodiment of the sensor connector assemblymounted on a printed circuit board and placed in the connector housing.

FIG. 2 e is an illustration of the exemplary embodiment of the sensorconnector assembly placed in the connector housing and encapsulated bythe upper encapsulation.

FIG. 2 f is an illustration of one exemplary embodiment of the sensorconnector assembly mounted in the flexible frame.

FIG. 2 g is an illustration of one exemplary embodiment of the sensorconnector assembly and frame mounted on a foam backing.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the underside of one exemplaryembodiment of the actuator element illustrating the connector and sensorattachment plate.

FIG. 3 a is a cross-sectional view of the mated actuator and sensorassembly of FIG. 3 a.

FIG. 3 b is a break-away view of the mated actuator and sensor assemblyof FIG. 3 a.

FIG. 3 c is a cut-away view of the exemplary embodiment of the sensorassembly mated with the attachment plate of the actuator.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the general method by which the hemodynamicassessment apparatus may be utilized.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like numerals refer tolike parts throughout.

It is noted that while the invention is described herein primarily interms of a method and apparatus for assessment of hemodynamic parametersof the circulatory system via the radial artery (i.e., wrist or forearm)of a human subject, the invention may also be readily embodied oradapted to monitor such parameters at other blood vessels and locationson the human body, as well as monitoring these parameters on otherwarm-blooded species. All such adaptations and alternate embodiments arereadily implemented by those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts, andare considered to fall within the scope of the claims appended hereto.

As used herein, the term “hemodynamic parameter” is meant to includeparameters associated with the circulatory system of the subject,including for example pressure (e.g., diastolic, systolic, pulse, ormean), blood flow kinetic energy, velocity, density, time-frequencydistribution, the presence of stenoses, SpO₂, pulse period, as well asany artifacts relating to the pressure waveform of the subject.

Additionally, it is noted that the terms “tonometric,” “tonometer,” and“tonometry” as used herein are intended to broadly refer to non-invasivesurface measurement of one or more hemodynamic parameters such aspressure, such as by placing a sensor in communication with the surfaceof the skin, although contact with the skin need not be direct (e.g.,such as through a coupling medium or other interface).

The terms “applanate” and “applanation” as used herein refer to thecompression (relative to a state of non-compression) of tissue, bloodvessel(s), and other structures such as tendon or muscle of thesubject's physiology. Similarly, an applanation “sweep” refers to one ormore periods of time during which the applanation level is varied(either increasingly, decreasingly, or any combination thereof).Although generally used in the context of linear (constant velocity)position variations, the term “applanation” as used herein mayconceivably take on any variety of other forms, including withoutlimitation (i) a continuous non-linear (e.g., logarithmic) increasing ordecreasing compression over time; (ii) a non-continuous or piece-wisecontinuous linear or non-linear compression; (iii) alternatingcompression and relaxation; (iv) sinusoidal or triangular wavesfunctions; (v) random motion (such as a “random walk”; or (vi) adeterministic profile. All such forms are considered to be encompassedby the term.

As used herein, the term “integrated circuit (IC)” refers to any type ofdevice having any level of integration (including without limitationULSI, VLSI, and LSI) and irrespective of process or base materials(including, without limitation Si, SiGe, CMOS and GaAs). ICs mayinclude, for example, memory devices (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, DDRAM,EEPROM/Flash, ROM), digital processors, SoC devices, FPGAs, ASICs, ADCs,DACs, transceivers, memory controllers, and other devices, as well asany combinations thereof.

As used herein, the term “memory” includes any type of integratedcircuit or other storage device adapted for storing digital dataincluding, without limitation, ROM. PROM, EEPROM, DRAM, SDRAM, DDR/2SDRAM, EDO/FPMS, RLDRAM, SRAM, “flash” memory (e.g., NAND/NOR), andPSRAM.

Overview

In one fundamental aspect, the present invention comprises apparatus andassociated methods for accurately and repeatably (if desired) disposingone or more sensors with respect to the anatomy of a subject tofacilitate subsequent hemodynamic parameter measurements using thesensor(s). For example, as will be described in greater detail below,the present invention is useful for accurately placing a pressure sensorassembly for continuously and non-invasively measuring the bloodpressure from the radial artery of a human being. However, literally anykind of sensor (ultrasound, optical, etc.) can be used alone or incombination consistent with the invention, including for example thedevices and associated techniques described in co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 10/961,460 entitled “Compact Apparatus and MethodsFor Non-Invasively Measuring Hemodynamic Parameters” filed Oct. 7, 2004,09/815,982 entitled “Method and Apparatus for the Noninvasive Assessmentof Hemodynamic Parameters Including Blood Vessel Location” filed Mar.22, 2001, and 09/815,080 entitled “Method and Apparatus for AssessingHemodynamic Parameters within the Circulatory System of a LivingSubject”, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,048,691, each of which are assigned to theassignee hereof and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

In one exemplary embodiment, the aforementioned pressure sensor iscoupled to an actuator mechanism carried by a brace or “bracelet”assembly worn by the subject in the area of the radial artery. Theactuator mechanism, when coupled to the sensor, controls the sensorlateral (and proximal, if desired) position as well as the level ofapplanation of the underlying tissue according to any number of controlschemes, including for example that set forth in Assignee's co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/211,115 filed Aug. 1, 2002, entitled“Method and Apparatus for Control of Non-Invasive ParameterMeasurements”, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,974,419, and in co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 10/072,508 filed Feb. 5, 2002, entitled “Method andApparatus for Non-Invasively Measuring Hemodynamic Parameters UsingParametrics,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,038, both of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, the presentinvention is also compatible with systems having separate sensor(s) andapplanation mechanisms, as well as combinations of the foregoingfeatures and sensors. The actuator is advantageously “displacement”driven, and accordingly does not rely on measurements of applied force,but rather merely displacement. This approach greatly simplifies theconstruction and operation of the actuator (and parent control system)by obviating force sensors and signal processing relating thereto, andfurther makes the actuator and system more robust.

The apparatus of the present invention also advantageously maintains ahighly rigid coupling between the sensor assembly and the braceletelement (actuator) used to receive the subject's anatomy, therebyfurther enhancing the accuracy of the system through elimination ofnearly all compliance within the apparatus.

In another aspect, the present invention is superior to the prior art inthat it incorporates automatic zeroing of the sensor. The automaticzeroing capability permits the sensor connector assembly to bepositioned without the use of additional elements thereby supportingefficient placement of the sensor.

Another significant feature of the present invention is that itincorporates electrical circuitry directly on the sensor so as tofacilitate simplified assembly, operation and calibration of theassembly.

Other significant features of the present invention include (i) ease ofuse under a variety of different operational environments; (ii)repeatability of measurements; and (iii) disposability of certaincomponents. These features are achieved through the use of novelstructures and techniques for placing the sensor(s) and operating thedevice, as well as significant modularity in design and consideration ofthe constraints relating to the typical (and atypical) clinicalenvironment.

In one aspect, the present invention overcomes the disabilitiesassociated with the prior art by providing a sensor assembly which isdetachable from the parent apparatus and remains positioned on thesubject during transport, thereby facilitating highly repeatablemeasurements using the same sensor at different physical locationswithin the care facility (e.g., hospital), as described in Assignee'sco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/336,222 filed Jan. 20,2006 entitled “Apparatus and methods for non-invasively measuringhemodynamic parameters” which Assignee hereby incorporates by referencein its entirety. The abovementioned features and other features are nowdescribed in detail.

Apparatus for Hemodynamic Assessment

Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of the hemodynamicassessment apparatus 100 of the invention is described. This embodimentgenerally comprises an actuator assembly 300 mated with a sensorassembly 200. The actuator 300 is optionally in the form of a wristbracelet as shown, and controls the movement of the sensor/applanationelement 210 of the sensor assembly 200. The sensor assembly 200comprises a flexible frame 204 with a foam backing 206. The sensorassembly 200 is further described in detail with regard to FIGS. 2-2 gbelow.

In the illustrated embodiment, this structure is preferably madedisposable through use of inexpensive materials (e.g., low-cost plasticmoldings) and design features facilitating such disposability; howeverin certain applications (such as where the apparatus is intended forreuse), more durable materials may be chosen.

Noticeably distinct from the prior art, the aforementioned embodiment ofthe hemodynamic assessment apparatus does not comprise an alignmentapparatus (e.g., paddle) as in prior embodiments. Rather, the exemplaryembodiment of the present invention is adapted to utilize automaticzeroing, a technique by which the sensor element is aligned without theuse of extraneous apparatus. Thus, the sensor element will beautomatically positioned in the most appropriate location relative tothe subject's anatomy.

In one variant of the invention, the frame 204 incorporates arrows thatare used to align with a line drawn on the patient's arm (e.g., by thecaregiver after manually locating the optimal location on the subject'sanatomy which represents the artery location). The clinician palpatesand marks the artery with a pen on the skin, drawing a line where theartery lies. Then he/she lines the two arrows on the top of the framewith the line drawn on the skin.

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a sensor assembly 200. Asillustrated, the sensor assembly 200 generally comprises a sensorconnector assembly 202 (described in more detail in FIG. 2 a-2 e below)mounted on a sensor element 210, the element 210 being movably coupledto a flexible frame element 204 (described in further detail in FIG. 2 fbelow), the latter which comprises a foam backing 206 (described indetail in FIG. 2 g below).

In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 200 further comprises a label orother covering 208 which (i) covers the end of the foam which wouldotherwise be bare adhesive, and (ii) shows inter alia a user the correctplacement of the device on the arm. Since the frame ends at the edge ofthe label, the foam is much more flexible, which allows it to conformbetter to the wrist. The label of the illustrated allows us to use onepiece of foam that has adhesive on the top surface, to attach it to theframe, although it will be appreciated that other approaches may be usedwith equal success.

FIG. 2 a illustrates the sensor connector assembly 202 which iscomprised of a sensor connector 218 disposed on the sensor/applanationelement 210. The sensor connector assembly 202 is further comprised ofan electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) IC(element 248 on FIG. 2 c), one or more pressure sensor elements (e.g., atransducer, strain beam device, piezoelectric or piezoresistive device,etc.), and a multi-layered housing element 214. These components of thesensor connector assembly 202 are illustrated and described in moredetail in FIGS. 2 b-2 e and the accompanying discussion below.

The sensor/applanation element 210 is used to compress the tissuesurrounding the blood vessel of interest under the force of the actuator300, and to thereby apply force to the blood vessel wall so as toovercome the wall or hoop stress thereof. The applanation element 210has a specially designed configuration adapted to mitigate the effectsof transfer loss in a simple, repeatable, and reliable way such that itcan be either (i) ignored or (ii) compensated for as part of thetonometric measurement.

The sensor connector assembly 202 further comprises a sensor connector218, which may be viewed in more detail in FIG. 2 b.

FIG. 2 b depicts the sensor connector 218. The sensor connector iscomprised of a plurality of conductors (e.g. wires 220 or alternativelyflat strips, conductive traces, etc.). The wires follow along theperiphery of one side of a generally pyramidal or tapered spool or block224, although other profiles and shapes (e.g., conic, trapezoidal,hemispherical, hexagonal, etc.) are contemplated. The use of a shapehelps to guide the connector into the receptacle without getting stuckor misaligned. The wires 220 are maintained electrically separate fromeach other by a series of ridges 222 along the inner portion of thepyramidal spool 224. The wires 220 are adapted such that when the sensorconnector assembly 202 is mated with the connector recess 308 theactuator 300, the wires 220 are positioned to electrically communicatewith the electrical contacts 312 of the recess 308. The exemplaryembodiment of the sensor connector 218 as illustrated in FIG. 2 bfurther depicts a plurality of wire terminals 226. It is appreciatedthat although eight wire terminals 226 are illustrated in the exemplaryembodiment, any number of such terminals may be utilized consistent withthe present invention. The plurality of exposed wires 220 is made largeso as to provide maximum opportunity for making a good connection withthe corresponding electrical connector in the actuator, described below.In the illustrated embodiment, two of the eight wires egress from oneside of the assembly, and six from the others, so as to providemechanical stability during assembly.

The overall tapered pyramidal shape of the top portion of the sensorconnector 218 is merely exemplary in that it promotes a frictionalcoupling between the sensor assembly 200 and the associated actuatorreceptacle 304. Thus, the associated actuator receptacle 304 (see FIG. 3and associated discussion below) is effectively the inverse of the topportion of the sensor connector 218; i.e., it is adapted to generallymatch at least most of the contours of the sensor connector 218 and theframe lip 282 (discussed below). Indentions 212 are provided in the topsurface of the bottom portion of the sensor element to allow mating tothe top portion thereof. The top portion of the sensor connector 218 canbe considered the “male” element, and the associated actuator receptacle304 the “female” element. The substantially square shape of the base ofthe sensor connector 218 advantageously controls rotation of the sensorconnector 218 with respect to the actuator receptacle 304 undertorsional loads. This coupling of the two elements 218, 304 allows for ahighly rigid and non-compliant joint between the actuator 300 and sensorassembly 200 in the applanation (normal) dimension, thereby effectivelyeliminating errors in resulting hemodynamic measurements which couldarise from such compliance. A discussion of the contribution of theframe lip 282 to this coupling is discussed below.

As illustrated in FIG. 2 c, the sensor connector assembly 202 furthercomprises a printed circuit board 240 on which the connector 218 isdisposed. The tabs 228 of the sensor connector 218 facilitate mountingthe sensor connector 218 on the printed circuit board 240 as they arereceived in tab recesses (not shown) on the circuit board 240.

The sensor connector wire terminals 226 are situated such that when thesensor connector 218 is mounted on the printed circuit board 240, thewire terminals 226 align with the sensor connector terminal electricalcontacts 244 on the printed circuit board 240. It is through thiscontact that information from the sensor (not shown) is transmitted,although other approaches may be used.

Also as depicted in FIG. 2 c, the sensor connector assembly 202comprises the sensing elements (not shown) accommodated within a lowersensor housing 246 below the sensor connector 218. A retention featuresuch as, for example, cantilever snap, is used to secure the lowerhousing element 246 to the other layers of the sensor connector assembly202. In another embodiment, the sensor has four leads that protrude, andare formed into “legs” that are soldered to the other side of the board.The part is also adhered to the board to ensure it is rigidly held.

The circular feature shown is the vent port protruding from the pressuresensor (246). This vent is a cylinder that sticks through the board andthereby allows for the pressure die in the sensor to be a gage device.It has effectively a vent on each side of the pressure diaphragm, withone side communicating with the silicone rubber gel which touches theskin and the other side of the diaphragm communicating with the air inthe environment in which it is being us

The sensor elements (not shown) are situated within the lower sensorhousing 246 such that the sensor is positioned to contact the skin of asubject. The bias element 216 then forms a substantially ellipticalprofile “pocket” adapted to house the sensor elements.

Also in FIG. 2 c, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory(EEPROM) IC 248 or other memory device is disposed on the printedcircuit board 240. The EEPROM chip terminals 250 are situated such thatwhen the EEPROM chip 248 is disposed on the printed circuit board 240,the terminals 250 are placed in contact with EEPROM terminal electricalcontacts 252 on the circuit board 240.

The circular feature 242 shown is a vent port protruding from thepressure sensor 246. This vent is a cylinder that protrudes through theboard and thereby allows for the pressure die in the sensor to be agauge device. It comprises a vent on each side of the pressurediaphragm, with one side communicating with the silicone rubber gelwhich touches the skin of the subject, and the other side of thediaphragm communicating with the air in the environment in which it isbeing used. This allows for the device to not read the atmosphericpressure differences at different altitudes.

Given the components described above, the sensor connector assembly 202in this embodiment is adapted to contain the necessary circuitry andsensor electronics such that the assembly 202, when mated with theactuator 300 will be able to transmit electrical signals from the sensorelement(s) (e.g., pressure transducer, not shown) to the actuator 300without the use of other apparatus. In this way, the assembly can detectand monitor pressure immediately upon electrical connection of thesensor assembly 200 to the actuator 300, and the need to form any otherelectrical or mechanical connections is obviated. Therefore, theabove-described embodiment determines and constantly monitorshemodynamic pressure efficiently and with increased ease of operation.

FIG. 2 d illustrates the disposition of the exemplary multi-layeredhousing element 214 around the printed circuit board 240 containing theEEPROM chip 248 and sensor connector 218. The multi-layered housingelement 214, inter alia, helps maintain and encase the printed circuitboard 240 and its components. Therefore, the face of the housing element214 contains an indentation that is substantially formed to suit theprinted circuit board 240. Further, the face of the housing element 214contains a protrusion 260 which aligns with the printed circuit boardindention 254 (FIG. 2 c). It is of note that each layer of themulti-layered housing element 214 includes various protrusions andcomplimentary indentions so that the layers may fit together in a uniquemanner, and may be held together without adhesives or other suchmechanisms if desired. Alternatively, the various features can beobviated in favor of such an adhesive or other mechanism. It isappreciated that other mechanisms for hold the housing elements togethermay be utilized consistent with the present invention. Further, a singlelayered housing element may also be substituted in place of themulti-layered configuration described herein. In one variant, theassembly is made as a “pallet” of boards that are snapped apart. Theconnectors and EEPROMs are soldered to one side of this array or matrixof boards, then the sensor is glued and then soldered to the other sideof each board. Once separated, they form the assembly shown is FIG. 2 c.The housings comprise a housing and a cap to hold the board in thehousing. The exemplary cap is made out of ABS plastic and is placed overthe connector and then solvent-bonded to the housing, effectivelytrapping the connector, the board and the sensor in place. Alternativeconfigurations considered included ultrasonically welding the cap to thehousing, or snapping the cap to the housing features to allow this.

FIG. 2 e demonstrates the placement of the final layer of the examplemulti-layer housing element 214. This layer of the housing element 214further includes a plurality of coupling indentions 212 a, 212 b, 212 cwhich are adapted to cooperate in coupling the sensor connector assembly202 to its parent actuator 300 (described in greater detail with respectto FIGS. 3-3 d herein). It is appreciated that different configurationsand number of coupling mechanisms may be utilized to facilitate matingof the sensor connector assembly 202 with the actuator 300.

Referring again to FIG. 2 a, the biasing element 216 of the sensorconnector assembly 202 surrounds the outer/bottom edge portions of themulti-layered housing element 214 as well as the portion of the pressuresensor element (not shown) which will come into contact with thesubject's skin. The biasing element 216 is, in one embodiment, madewholly from a silicone-based encapsulation material. There are at leasttwo distinct advantages of using encapsulation material as the biasingelement 216 for smaller embodiments such as the sensor connectorassembly 202 of FIGS. 2 and 2 a. First, the use of encapsulationmaterial eases fabrication, as smaller size foam is more difficult tohandle in production environments. Second, the bottom edge of thebiasing element 216 can now have a radius or other transitional shapemolded into the profile, reducing the size of the shearing effect on theskin as the sensor connector assembly 202 is pressed into the skinduring lateral and proximal movements. It will be noted also that theotherwise “unitary” encapsulation material shown may also be comprisedof two or more independent or coupled component moldings if desired.

It will also be appreciated that consistent with other embodiment(s) ofthe sensor assembly 200, other schemes may be used with the invention,such as not using the sensor connector assembly 202 as the applanationelement. For example, an actuator coupled to an applanation element (notshown) separate or otherwise decoupled from the pressure or othersensor(s) may be employed. While significant economies and advantagesrelate to the exemplary use of the sensor as the applanation element,this is by no means a requirement for practicing the invention. Hence,the present invention should in no way be considered limited toembodiments wherein the sensor (i.e. the sensor connector assembly 202)also acts as the applanation mechanism.

While the biasing element 216 in the present embodiment comprises asilicone rubber based compound that is applied over the active face ofthe pressure transducer (and selective portions of the housing element214) to provide coupling between the active face and the subject's skin,other materials which provide sufficient pressure coupling, whetheralone or in conjunction with an external coupling medium (such as a gelor liquid of the type well known in the art) may be used as well.Further, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to construct thebiasing element from, or coat it with, materials having low coefficientsof friction such as e.g. Teflon™, etc.

Moreover, the bias element need not necessarily be uniform in materialconstruction, but rather could be constructed using hybrid materialsintegrated to perform the desirable functions of the bias element whenused in combination. This may include mixing materials, doping thesilicone material to provide other desirable properties, coating thematerial (as previously described), and so forth. Myriad other designchoices would be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill given thepresent disclosure.

In the exemplary embodiment, the bias element 216 is formed by moldingthe encapsulant (e.g., silicone compound) around the sensor element (notshown) and housing element 214 after the sensor (not shown) has beenplaced in the housing 214. This ensures that the encapsulant completelycovers the sensor, and fills all voids. In effect, the bias element 216is molded around the sensor (not shown), thereby ensuring a conformalfit and direct coupling between the encapsulant material and thesensor's active face. It will also be recognized that the sensor andapplanation element configuration of FIG. 2 a is merely exemplary, andother sensor configurations (e.g., single or multiple transducer,homogeneous or heterogeneous sensors (i.e., combined with the same orother types of sensors), and/or using different bias element geometry)may be used consistent with the present invention.

FIG. 2 f depicts the sensor/applanation element 210 and its connectorassembly 202 mounted movably within the flexible frame element 204. Thisexemplary embodiment generally comprises a single frame element 204,which is distinguished over prior art implementations having two frameelements. This approach advantageously simplifies the construction ofthe apparatus, and also provides opportunities for reducingmanufacturing cost while also increasing ease of use by the caregiver orsubject being monitored.

The single frame element 204 comprises a generally planar (yet curved),thin profile. This approach (i.e., flatter and thinner material) hassignificant advantages over the prior art including allowing forincreased conformity and adaptation to the anatomy of the subject beingmonitored. The single frame element 204 is advantageously shaped from apolymer molding formed from polypropylene or polyethylene, althoughother materials and degrees of flexibility may be used consistent withthe principles of the present invention.

The Assignee hereof has also found through experimentation that placingthe sensor at a more distal location with respect to the wrist andforearm can result in more consistent system performance and betteraccuracy. Thus, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 f the frame 204 of theapparatus is notably smaller in surface area with respect to the portionof the frame 204 that extends on the radial side of the apparatus whenit is disposed on a human subject. Utilizing a shape with a minimizedframe in this area permits the apparatus to be placed at a more distallocation while avoiding the thenar eminence (the body of muscle on thepalm of the human hand just beneath the thumb). It is noted however thatthe aforementioned level of flexibility of the frame 204 is furtherselected to permit some deformation and accommodation by the frame tothe shape and radius of the wrist of the subject as well. Accordingly,the foregoing optional features coordinate to provide a more comfortableand well-fitted frame and sensing apparatus, thereby also increasingaccuracy of the measurements obtained thereby.

Also illustrated in FIG. 2 f, the exemplary embodiment of the frame 204presents the user with a miniature placement “map” by way of the graphicillustration of the location of local physiology through labeling andthe like. For example, at one end of the frame element 204, thelettering “ulnar side” 270 is produced by way of cutout on the frameelement 204, although other approaches such as labels, painting/marking,etc. may be used to accomplish this function. This phrase refers theuser to the fact that this ulnar side of the frame element should bepositioned on the ulnar side of the patient's forearm. The cut-throughdesign of the illustrated embodiment is advantageous in that thelettering can be more legible to a user of a device than otherapproaches, and cannot be removed or fall off. After proper placement,the user then deforms the frame 204 around the subject's wrist, therebyadhering the frame 204 in place on the patient's forearm using anadhesive placed on the contact (skin) side of the frame and exposedafter its protective sheet is removed.

Also depicted in FIG. 2 f, a set of ribs or risers 272 are provided;these ribs 272 are notable as they are received within correspondingfeatures (e.g., cavities) present on the actuator 300. The embodiment ofFIG. 2 f advantageously simplifies the design and molding of thealignment apparatus frame 204, as compared to prior art embodimentswhich utilize complex structures that fit both within and outside ofactuator cavities. The ribs 272 are further adapted to comprise anintrusion or aperture 274 on the outer surface of each with respect tothe sensor connector assembly 202. The intrusions 274 are adapted toreceive complementary tabs 322 associated with the actuator 300 therebyallowing the actuator 300 to be set in place (i.e. mated with the sensorassembly 200) and unable to significantly rotate. Note that in theillustrated embodiment, there is 10° rotation built in to allow for theshape variation in the forearms of different subjects. Once the deviceis rotated beyond that limit the sides of the cavities press against thesides of the snap features on the actuator and that forces the frame todeflect which releases the frame from the actuator. To install theactuator onto the frame one must simply press the actuator down onto theframe at which point the whole frame acts as a snap fit and latches tothe actuator.

This feature ensures an easily formed, robust, and uninterruptedconnection of the actuator 300 to the sensor assembly 200.

As demonstrated in FIG. 2 f, coupling of the sensor connector assembly202 to the frame element 204 in the exemplary embodiment is accomplishedusing a flexible and resilient serpentine-like suspension loop 276 andassociated suspending arms 278.

The suspension loop 276 is attached to the circumference of themulti-layered housing element 214; the loop substantially encircles thesensor connector assembly 202 and fits within a groove formed in theouter edge of the sensor element 210, although other arrangements may beused. As illustrated in the figure, sections of the suspension loop 276are formed so as not to be in contact with the housing element 214 aspreviously described. These sections form arches 280 which receive thepins 314 located within the actuator receptacle 304 when the actuator300 is mated with the sensor assembly 200. However, other methods forassisting and maintaining the sensor connector assembly 202 within theactuator receptacle 304 may be used with equal success.

Note that in the illustrated embodiment, the end loops also facilitateputting the elliptical ring feature of the suspension loop around thegroove of the sensor multi-layer assembly. They allow the ring to“stretch” for assembly.

The suspending arms 278 are coupled rigidly to the frame element 204 viaintegral injection molding, adhesive or other means and attachedflexibly to the suspension loop 276. The suspending arms 278 in thepresent embodiment provide sufficient “slack” such that the frameelement 204 and the sensor element 210 can move to an appreciable degreelaterally (and in other degrees of freedom) within the frame 204,thereby allowing the actuator 300 to move the sensor element 210relative to the radial artery during execution of its positioningalgorithm and automatic zeroing of the sensor. The present inventionalso allows for such freedom of movement in the proximal direction aswell as in the direction of applanation or blood vessel compression.Moreover, sufficient slack may be provided in the suspending arms 278 toallow a desired degree of proximal movement of the sensor element 210 bythe actuator 300, as well as rotation of the sensor element in the X-Yplane (i.e., “yaw” of the sensor assembly about its vertical axis).Other arrangements may also be used, such alternatives being readilyimplemented by those of ordinary skill in the mechanical arts.

It will be further noted that in the illustrated embodiment, thesuspension loop 276 and associated suspending arms 278 maintain thesensor element 210 (including most notably the active surface of theassembly) in a raised position completely disengaged or elevated abovethe surface of the skin. This advantageously allows the operator and thesystem to verify no bias of the sensor and pressure transducer duringperiods when bias is undesirable, such as during calibration of thesensor.

The exemplary zeroing algorithm includes various features, including (i)checking for a quiescent state wherein the output from the sensor issteady (e.g., monotonic, although not necessarily constant, due to e.g.,sensor warmup or other temperature effects), which does not happen whenthe sensor is touching skin, and/or (ii) retracting the sensor up intothe actuator and “dithering” the applanation position in order to ensurethat if the pressure does not change the sensor is truly off the skin.Either or both of these approaches may be used.

FIG. 2 f also depicts an exemplary frame lip 282 which is formed alongthe circumference of the central aperture of the frame element 204. Theframe lip 282 is designed to fit snugly within the actuator receptacle304 thereby holding the sensor assembly 200 in contact with the actuator300. The lip also adds rigidity to the frame in the direction in whichthe snap fits act for the attachment of the frame to the actuator. Italso prohibits the actuator from being placed on backwards byinterfering with features on the opposite side of the actuator.

Thus the actuator receptacle 304, as discussed below, is comprised of a“moat” to accept the protruding frame lip 282. The frame lip 282configuration of the exemplary embodiment is preferable to other priorart configurations because, inter alia, this configuration permits asingle-step, unobstructed connection of the sensor assembly 200 to theactuator 300. There is also better automatic guidance, therebyminimizing the chance of a mismatch.

Referring now to FIG. 2 g, the foam backing 206 onto which the frameelement 204 is disposed is described in detail. The foam backing 206 iscomprised of compliant foam with adhesive surfaces that is mounted tothe contact-side of the element 204. The foam backing can advantageouslybe conformed to the unique profiles and shapes associated with livingsubjects of varying shapes and sizes.

As described above, the frame element 204 is substantially minimizedwith respect to the radial portion in this embodiment as compared toprior art embodiments. Accordingly, the foam backing 206 may be adaptedto extend the radial portion of the sensor assembly 200 in order topermit increased surface area for attachment to a subject. As discussedabove, the shape of the foam backing 206 will be such that the thenareminence (“thumb muscle”) of a human subject continues to beaccommodated. Thus, the attachment of the sensor assembly 200 is notobstructed, but rather conforms to the natural raises and indentationsin a subject's anatomy.

The adhesive on the underside of the compliant foam backing 206 isadapted such that when the frame element 204 is disposed atop thesubject's skin, it bonds to the skin, the frame element 204 deformingsomewhat to match the surface contour of the skin. The adhesive isselected so as to provide a firm and long-lasting bond (especially underpotentially moist conditions resulting from patient perspiration, etc.),yet be readily removed when disposal is desired without significantdiscomfort to the subject. However, other means for maintaining theframe element 204 in a constant position with respect to the subject'sanatomy may be used, including for example Velcro straps, tape,application of an adhesive directly to the underside of the frameelement 204 itself, etc. In another embodiment, a thermally- orlight-sensitive frame material is used that allows the initiallydeformable and pliable frame element to become substantially more rigidupon exposure to heat, light, or other such “curing” process.

A low-cost removable backing sheet (e.g., waxed or coated on one side)of the type well known in the adhesive arts may be used to cover theaforementioned adhesive (not shown) disposed on the interior or contactside of the frame element 204 prior to use, so as to preclude compromisethereof. The user simply peels off the backing sheet, places the frameelement 204 on the desired anatomy location, and gently compresses itagainst the subject's skin to form the aforementioned bond, deformingthe frame element 204 as needed to the contour of the subject's anatomy.The adhesive bond is strong enough, and the frame element pliableenough, such that any deformation of the frame element is substantiallypreserved by the bond as discussed above.

As discussed above, a notable difference between the foregoing exemplaryembodiment of the sensor assembly 200 described above and that of theprior art is the absence of a “paddle” element in the present invention.The paddle element is used in the prior art to place the sensor assemblyin a desired location relative to the subject's anatomy. In the presentinvention, however, the necessity for the user to place the sensorassembly manually is obviated in favor of an automatic zeroing process.In this embodiment, the automatic zeroing advantageously simplifies theoperation of the apparatus, and also provides opportunities for reducingmanufacturing cost, because there is no need to manufacture a paddle,assemble it, and so forth. Rather than aligning the artery or otherblood vessel between the two parallel lines of the paddle (e.g., byaligning the longitudinal axis of the target portion of the arterybetween the two parallel features of the reticle), the present inventionpermits a user to merely place the apparatus on the subjects anatomy,and line up the arrow marks on the sides of the frame with the line ofthe artery. Further, the straight edges of the frame are supposed toline up with the “wrist break” where the wrist ends and the hand starts.The shape of the foam is also supposed to seat the frame in closeproximity to where it is needed due to the flare shape which simulatesthe thump flaring to one side. Thus, the present invention greatlyincreases the ease of use by the caregiver or subject being monitored.

In the illustrated embodiment, the substantially elliptical sensor shapealso accommodates moving the edge of the frame 204 closer to thecenterline of the apparatus, so that the frame 204 can accommodate thethenar eminence. The reduced sensor size and profile in thelateral/medial direction (as compared to other embodiment describedherein) also allows the frame to be smaller than it otherwise would, andthe sides of the sensor impinge less on tendons that run in theproximal/distal direction.

Moreover, by making the sensor smaller in all directions, the surfacearea being pressed into the skin is reduced, which reduces the powerneeded to drive the sensor into the skin. By reducing the powerrequired, the applanation/positioning mechanisms can be made smaller,and less electrical power is required (important for “stand-alone” orbattery powered variants).

Another advantage of the smaller elliptically-shaped sensor element 210is that because of the reduced lateral/medial length, the sensorimpinges less on tendons during sensor travel (e.g., in thelateral/medial direction) as previously noted, thereby allowing thesensor to slide across the surface of the skin in a more uniform andsmooth manner.

This provides enhanced performance during, inter alia, lateral searchphase monitoring. In addition, the elliptical shape of the sensor 210 ofFIGS. 2-2 g provides a continuously curved surface on the outerperiphery of the sensor connector assembly 202, facilitating movementsin both the lateral and proximal axes by reducing shear effects.Specifically, in one aspect, the elimination of “corners” on theelliptical variant makes changes in direction and movement smoother inall directions, and when coupled with the curved sidewall orcross-sectional profile of the assembly, allows for some degree of roll,pitch, and/or yaw of the sensor relative to the tissue surface (orconversely, greater irregularities within the tissue shape or surface)without adversely impacting movement of the sensor assembly across thetissue.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-3 d, one exemplary embodiment of the actuatorassembly 300 of the invention is described. The actuator 300 describedherein is designed to provide adjustment or movement of the position ofthe sensor element 210 in both sagittal and lateral (transverse)directions; however, it will be appreciated that it may be modified toprovide more or less degrees of freedom (including, for example,proximal adjustment). Hence, the following embodiments are merelyexemplary in nature.

FIG. 3 illustrates the underside of one embodiment of the actuatorassembly 300. The underside of the actuator in this embodiment isgenerally comprised of an attachment plate 302 onto which variouscoupling mechanisms and receiving apparatus are disposed. The receivingapparatus (e.g. the actuator receptacle 304, the connector disk 310 andconnector recess 308) provide cavities within which portions of thesensor connector assembly 202 are accepted when the sensor element 210(and assembly 200) and the actuator 300 are mated. The couplingmechanisms (e.g. the frame lip receiving walls 320 and complementarytabs 322, and the actuator receptacle rings provide a secure connectionbetween the actuator 300 and the sensor connector assembly 202. A rubberbellows 318 is also provided that allows the receptacle to move withrespect to the rest of the actuator and seals the opening around thereceptacle from fluid or dirt ingress. Each of these features will bediscussed in detail below. It will be recognized, however, that othercoupling arrangements for the secure mating of the actuator 300 to thesensor element 210 and assembly 200, whether utilizing the couplingmechanisms and receiving apparatus or not, may be employed consistentwith the invention.

The exemplary attachment plate 302 further comprises a plurality ofplate attachment features 306 by which the attachment plate is fastenedto the underside of the actuator 300. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3, the plate attachment features consist of threaded cavities whichare designed permit assembly via screwing the attachment plate into theactuator 300 body. It is appreciated that other methods and techniquesmay be utilized to secure the attachment plate 302 to the actuator 300body, such as, for example, via a glue, latch, or similar technique.

In the exemplary embodiment, the underside of the actuator 300 featuresan actuator receptacle 304. The actuator receptacle 304 is a recess inthe actuator plate 302 which is adapted to receive the sensor assembly200. The actuator receptacle 304 is comprised of a plurality of innerrings, a connector disk 310 and frame lip receiving walls 320.

The connector disk 310 is adapted to accept portions of the sensorconnector assembly 202 and promote secure mating therewith. Accordingly,the connector disk 310 comprises a partial bearing ring 316 whichconforms substantially to the corresponding features of the sensorconnector assembly 202 and helps secure the actuator 300 in place,especially under conditions of transverse loading or rotation of theactuator 300 around the lateral or proximal axis. The connector disk 310also comprises a plurality of pins 314 which fit into the arches 280 ofthe suspension loop 276. As described previously, when the actuator 300is mated with the sensor assembly 200, the pins 314 will be receivedsnugly within the aperture created by the suspension loop arches 280.

The connector recess 306 is disposed on the connector disk 310 of theactuator receptacle 304. The connector recess 306 is specificallyadapted to accept the pyramidal sensor connector 218. Thus, it consistsof an inverted pyramidal shaped recess. The inverted pyramidal shapedrecess of the connector recess 306 is further adapted to maintainelectrical contact with the plurality of wires 220 on the sensorconnector 218 when the two 306, 218 are mated. This electricalcommunication occurs via placement of electrical contacts 308 on theconnector recess 306 by which electrical signals are transmitted. Thereceptacle also has a “U” shape that precludes the connector from beingput in backwards.

FIG. 3 further illustrates the frame lip receiving walls 320, which aredisposed on the actuator receptacle 304. The frame lip receiving walls320 conform substantially to the corresponding features of the frameelement 204 and help secure the actuator 300 in place. Specifically, theframe lip receiving walls 320 create a moat wherein the ribs or risers272 of the frame element 204 are fitted when the actuator 300 and sensorassembly 200 are mated. The frame lip receiving walls 320 are furtheradapted to include complementary tabs 322 which are designed to snapinto the matching intrusions 274 on the ribs 272, thereby allowing theactuator 300 to be set in place (i.e. mated with the sensor assembly200) and unable to rotate. When viewed from the side the receiving wallsalso have a shape that precludes the actuator from being put onbackwards.

FIGS. 1 and 3 a-3 c illustrate the exemplary coupling between theactuator 300 and sensor assembly 200. As best illustrated in FIG. 1, thevarious coupling mechanisms (described above) are configured so as tomate the actuator 300 and sensor assembly 200 together in a unitary (butreadily separable) assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 3 a-3 c, in the illustrated embodiment, the top ofthe sensor connector assembly 202 is substantially elongated pyramidalin shape due to the pyramidal shaped sensor connector 218. Similarly,the connector recess 308 attached to the actuator 300 is effectively theinverse of the sensor connector assembly 202 in shape; i.e., it isadapted to generally match the contours of the sensor connector assembly202 and the alignment and retention features almost exactly. Hence,portions of the sensor connector assembly 202 which are received intothe actuator 300 can be considered the “male” element, while theconnector recess 308 is considered the “female” element. Thesubstantially square shape of the base of the sensor connector 218 aidsin controlling rotation of the connector recess 308 with respect to thesensor assembly 200 under torsional load. This coupling of the twoelements 218, 308 allows for a highly rigid and non-compliant jointbetween the actuator and sensor assembly in the applanation (normaldimension), thereby effectively eliminating errors in resultinghemodynamic measurements which would arise from such compliance. Thisdesign, however, also includes enough tolerance between the couplingcomponents to facilitate easy decoupling of the sensor assembly 200 fromthe actuator 30. The serpentine like suspending arms 278 provide morethan sufficient strength to prevent separation of the sensor connectorassembly 202 from its parent sensor assembly 200 while still permittingmovement therein; the sensor assembly 200 is specifically configuredsuch that, under all attitudes, the sensor connector assembly 202 willseparate from its coupling to the actuator 300 well before theserpentine arms 278 yield significantly.

It will be noted that the elongated pyramid shape of the couplingelements further allows for coupling of the two devices under conditionsof substantial misalignment; i.e., where the apex of the sensorconnector assembly 202 is displaced somewhat in the lateral (i.e., X-Y)plane from the corresponding connector recess 308 of the actuator 300,and/or the sensor assembly 200 is rotated or cocked with respect to theactuator 300 prior to coupling. This feature aids in ease of clinicaloperation, in that the instrument can tolerate some misalignment of thesensor and actuator (the latter due to, e.g., the actuator arm of theactuator 300 (not shown) not being in perfect alignment over the sensorassembly 200 and sensor element 210).

It will further be recognized that while the illustrated embodimentcomprises elongated substantially pyramid-shaped elements, other shapesand sizes may be utilized with success. For example, the apparatus maycomprise complementary conic or frustoconical sections. As yet anotheralternative, a substantially spherical shape could be utilized. Otheralternatives include use of multiple “domes” and/or alignment features,inversion of the first and second elements (i.e., the first elementbeing substantially female and the second element being male), or evendevices utilizing electronic sensors to aid in alignment of the twoelements.

In one embodiment of the hemodynamic assessment apparatus 100 of theinvention, the apparatus is adapted to notify the user/operator of thepresence of the sensor assembly (as well as the status of its couplingto the actuator 300 and the sufficiency of electrical tests of thesensor assembly) through an integrated indication. Any type ofindication scheme well known to those of ordinary skill in theelectronic arts may be used, including for example one or more singlecolor LED which blinks at varying periods (including no blinking) toindicate the presence or status of the components, such as by usingvarying blink patters, sequences, and periods as error codes which theoperator can use to diagnose problems, multiple LEDs, light pipes.Optionally, the device further comprises a circuit which evaluatesparameters in the pressure transducer and thereby can determine if theconnection has been made to the transducer and EEPROM. The device mayalso be configured to look for the information in the EEPROM to know ifit is connected if desired.

FIG. 3 a is a cross sectional view of the actuator 300 coupled to thesensor assembly 200. Specifically, the illustration demonstrates theelectrical and mechanical connector of the sensor connector assembly 202within the connector recess 308.

The break-away view depicted in FIG. 3 b further demonstrates theprecise cooperation between the sensor connector assembly 202 and theattachment plate 302. The interaction of the frame lip 282 (of the frameelement 204 of the sensor assembly 200) and the frame lip receivingwalls 320 is shown. However, a more detailed depiction of thisinteraction is available in FIG. 3 c.

FIG. 3 c, as discussed above, is an illustration of the latchingmechanism of the frame lip 282 and receiving walls 320. As shown best inFIG. 3, the underside of the actuator 300 is also configured to includetwo ridges or walls 320 with complementary tabs 322. As shown in FIG. 2f, the sensor assembly 200 is configured to include risers or ribs 272with corresponding intrusions 274. The tabs 322 of the actuator 300 fitwithin the intrusions 274 of the sensor assembly 200 as shown. The snapson the attachment plate do indeed snap into the recesses in the sides ofthe frame ribs (element 322 fits into element 274), As shown best inFIG. 3, the underside of the actuator 300 is configured to include tworidges or walls 320. As shown in FIG. 2 f, the sensor assembly 200 isconfigured to include a frame lip 282. The frame lip does not interlockwith anything in the actuator; rather it sits below the actuator. Theframe lip also make the frame stiffer in that area which improves thesnap of the latching tabs on the underside of the actuator to the frame.

The interior components (not shown) of the actuator 300 will be of thetype described in Assignee's co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/961,460 entitled “Compact Apparatus and Methods For Non-InvasivelyMeasuring Hemodynamic Parameters” filed Oct. 7, 2004 which Assigneehereby incorporates by reference in its entirety. These generallycomprise, inter alia, a motor chassis assembly with associated sensordrive coupling, and substrate (e.g., PCB) assembly.

It will further be recognized that an exemplary embodiment of theactuator mechanism would allow for the separation of the movement of thesensor connector assembly in the various directions; i.e., applanation,lateral, and proximal. Specifically, the actuator mechanism would permitconcurrent yet independent movement in the various directions, as wellas allow for a highly compact and space/weight efficient actuator. Anexemplary actuator mechanism would further be adapted so as to minimizethe number of components within the actuator (including the motors),thereby reducing electrical power consumption as well as any effect onpressure measurements resulting from the translation of a mass withinthe actuator during such measurements.

Methodology

Referring now to FIG. 4, the general and improved method 400 ofpositioning a sensor with respect to the anatomy of the subject andrecurrently measuring the blood pressure of the subject is nowdescribed. It will be recognized that while the following discussion iscast in terms of the placement of a tonometric pressure sensor (e.g.,silicon strain beam device) used for measuring arterial blood pressure,the methodology is equally applicable to both other types of sensors andother parts of the subject's anatomy, human or otherwise.

As shown in FIG. 4, the illustrated embodiment of the method 400generally comprises first determining the location of the anatomy onwhich the apparatus is to be placed (step 402).

Next, the sensor is disposed relative to the marker (step 404).Specifically, in this step of the method, the user or clinician removesthe backing sheet to expose the adhesive on the foam backing 206, andthen bonds the frame element 204 to the subject's skin, such that thesensor connector assembly 202 is aligned generally over the pulse pointof interest. The sensor is automatically zeroed (e.g., by the zeroingalgorithm previously described) once placed on the subject's anatomy,and may also be adjusted laterally and or proximally according to aplacement or locating algorithm of the type referenced elsewhere herein,thereby obviating a need for manual precise placement. In the exemplaryembodiment, the frame element 204 and sensor connector assembly 202 come“assembled” and pre-packaged, such that the user merely opens thepackage, removes the sensor assembly 200 (including installed sensorconnector assembly 202), and removes the backing sheet from the adhesiveand places the frame element 204 as previously described.

As per step 406, the actuator 300 is securely mated with the sensorassembly. In an alternative embodiment, an optional wrist brace is firstattached to the subject so as to provide stability to the subject'sanatomy. The actuator 300 is then attached to the sensor assembly 200and wrist brace. As described above, in one embodiment, an indicatorwill signify when the actuator 300 is properly mated with the sensorassembly 200.

In step 408, the device is “zeroed” and calibrated if required.

Lastly, in step 410, the blood pressure or other parameter(s) of thesubject are measured using the sensor(s) subsequent to the calibration(step 408).

Specifically, the sensor position is maintained with respect to theanatomy between measurements using the frame element 204 and adhesive onfoam backing 206 as well as the optional wrist brace. These cooperate tomaintain the sensor element 210 generally atop the desired pulse pointof the subject even after the actuator 300 is decoupled from the sensor.Herein lies a significant advantage of the present invention, in thatthe actuator 300 (and even the remainder of the hemodynamic monitoringapparatus 100, including brace) can be removed from the subject, leavingthe sensor assembly 200 and hence sensor element 210 in place. It may bedesirable to remove actuator 300 for example where transport of thesubject is desired and the present location has dedicated equipmentwhich must remain, or the monitored subject must have the apparatus 100removed to permit another procedure (such as post-surgical cleaning,rotation of the subject's body, etc.). The sensor element 210 ismaintained effectively constant with respect to the subject pulse pointbecause it is securely attached to the frame element 204 via thesuspension loop 276.

Hence, when it is again desired to monitor the subject using the sensor,the bracelet with actuator 300 (or another similar device at thedestination), if used, is fitted to the subject. The user/caregiver thenmerely places the bracelet and presses to attach the actuator 300 to thesensor element 210 (and sensor assembly 200) since the sensor assemblyis still disposed in the same location with the frame element 204 aswhen the first actuator was decoupled. The sensor is automaticallyzeroed, as described above, accordingly, no use of any alignmentapparatus or other techniques for positioning the sensor “from scratch”is needed, thereby saving time and cost. This feature further allows formore clinically significant or comparable results since the same sensoris used with effectively identical placement on the same subject; hence,and differences noted between the first and second measurementsdiscussed above are likely not an artifact of the measurement apparatus100.

It will be further recognized that while two measurements are describedabove, the sensor assembly 200 and methodology of the invention allowfor multiple such sequential decoupling-movement-recoupling eventswithout having any significant effect on the accuracy of anymeasurements.

While the foregoing method has been found by the Assignee hereof to havesubstantial benefits including ease of use and low cost, it will berecognized that any number of different combinations of these or similarsteps may be used (as well as different apparatus). For example, it isfeasible that the manufacturer may wish to provide the components as akit, which the user assembles.

As yet even a further alternative, a “marker” may be used in conjunctionwith the frame. For example, the marker may comprise a tangible markeror sight (e.g., plastic reticle), light source (such as an LED,incandescent bulb, or even low-energy laser light) which is projectedonto the desired pulse point of the subject. This latter approach hasthe advantage that no physical removal of the marker is required;rather, the sensor assembly 200 can simply be put into place over thepulse point, thereby interrupting the light beam with no physicalinterference or deleterious effects.

Alternatively, an acoustic or ultrasonic marker (or marker based on aphysical parameter sensed from the subject such as pressure) can beemployed. The sensor or array may be used to precisely localize thepulse point using for example a search algorithm, such as that describedin Assignee's co-pending applications previously incorporated herein, tofind the optimal lateral position. This advantageously obviates the needfor a reticle or other marker, since the onus is on the clinician/userto place the frame 204 properly within at least the proximal dimension.Such search method can also be extended into the proximal dimension ifdesired, such by including an actuator with a proximal drive motor, anda broader frame dimension.

Clearly, myriad other different combinations and configurations of thebasic methodology of (i) positioning a marker with respect to a point;(ii) disposing a sensor with respect to the marker, and (iii) disposingthe sensor proximate the desired point, will be recognized by those ofordinary skill given the present disclosure. The present discussionshould therefore in no way be considered limiting of this broadermethod.

As previously noted, one of the significant advantages of the presentinvention relates to its flexibility; i.e., that it is essentiallyagnostic to the hardware/firmware/software on which it is used, and canbe readily adapted to various different platforms or systems formeasuring hemodynamic or other physiologic parameters. For example, themethods and apparatus of the present invention are substantiallycompatible with, inter alia, those described in: co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/393,660 “Method and Apparatus for Control ofNon-Invasive Parameter Measurements” filed Mar. 20, 2003; co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/269,801 entitled “Apparatus andMethods for Non-Invasively Measuring Hemodynamic Parameters” filed Oct.11, 2002; co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/920,990entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Non-Invasively Measuring HemodynamicParameters” filed Aug. 18, 2004; co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. TBD entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Non-Invasively MeasuringHemodynamic Parameters” filed Jan. 20, 2006; co-pending U.S. Pat. No.6,554,774 entitled “Method and Apparatus for Assessing HemodynamicParameters within the Circulatory System of a Living Subject” issuedApr. 29, 2003, each of the foregoing assigned to the Assignee hereof andincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

It is noted that many variations of the methods described above may beutilized consistent with the present invention. Specifically, certainsteps are optional and may be performed or deleted as desired.Similarly, other steps (such as additional data sampling, processing,filtration, calibration, or mathematical analysis for example) may beadded to the foregoing embodiments. Additionally, the order ofperformance of certain steps may be permuted, or performed in parallel(or series) if desired. Hence, the foregoing embodiments are merelyillustrative of the broader methods of the invention disclosed herein.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features of the invention as applied to various embodiments,it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changesin the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be madeby those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of theinvention. The foregoing description is of the best mode presentlycontemplated of carrying out the invention. This description is in noway meant to be limiting, but rather should be taken as illustrative ofthe general principles of the invention. The scope of the inventionshould be determined with reference to the claims.

1. A sensor assembly adapted to sense a hemodynamic parameter from aliving subject, comprising: a substantially conformal frame; and asensor element, said sensor element coupled to said frame by an at leastpartly flexible support structure; wherein said sensor element furthercomprises an electrical interface, and said sensor element is configuredso as to form an electrical connection with a corresponding electricalinterface of a host device simultaneously during mating of said sensorelement to said host device.
 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, whereinsaid sensor element comprises a blood pressure sensor, and furthercomprises: a biasing element; a pressure transducer; a plurality ofelectrical conductors disposed on at least one printed circuit board andadapted to electrically interface with said host device; and a housingelement adapted to encase at least a portion of said sensor element. 3.The sensor assembly of claim 2, wherein said housing element comprises asubstantially pyramid-shaped portion, at least a portion of saidelectrical conductors being disposed thereon.
 4. The sensor assembly ofclaim 1, wherein said host device comprises an actuator, and said atleast partly flexible support structure comprises a plurality of atleast partly arcuate linkages.
 5. The sensor assembly of claim 1,wherein said mating of said sensor element to said host device isfacilitated via one or more retention features on said frame and saidsensor element.
 6. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein said framehas a substantially smaller surface area on a radial side than on anulnar side when disposed on said subject.
 7. The sensor assembly ofclaim 1, wherein said frame further comprises a substantially compliantfoam backing having at least one adhesive surface adapted to adhere totissue of said subject.
 8. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein saidassembly comprises apparatus adapted to facilitate alignment of saidsensor element above an artery of said subject without the use of anexternal alignment apparatus.
 9. A method of measuring one or morephysiologic parameters of a living subject, said method comprising:disposing at least one sensor element on said subject; mating saidsensor element to a host device; using said host device to automaticallyposition said sensor element at a prescribed monitoring location, andcalibrate said sensor element; and measuring said one or more parametersof said subject using said sensor element.
 10. The method of claim 9,wherein said act of positioning said sensor element further comprisesautomatically zeroing the sensor with respect to the placement of saidsensor element on said subject.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein saidautomatic zeroing comprises at least one of: checking for a quiescentstate comprising a substantially steady sensor electrical output; andretracting said sensor away from tissue of said living subject, andperforming one or more sample applanation functions.
 12. The method ofclaim 9, wherein said mating of said host device with said sensorelement comprises simultaneously forming both electrical and mechanicalconnections.
 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising: decouplingsaid host device from said sensor element; re-mating said host deviceand said sensor element after a period of time; and obtaining secondmeasurements of said one or more hemodynamic parameters of said subjectwithout having to recalibrate said sensor element.
 14. The method ofclaim 9, further comprising determining whether a sensor element iscoupled to said host device by at least: attempting to couple saidsensor to said host device; and evaluating whether proper mechanical andelectrical coupling has been achieved by evaluating the presence of anelectrical attribute associated with said sensor element.
 15. The methodof claim 14, wherein said attribute comprises at least one of:determining whether electrical continuity between said sensor elementand host device exists; or attempting to access a storage device on saidsensor element using circuitry in said host device.
 16. Apparatusadapted to measure at least one physiologic parameter of a livingsubject, comprising: a support element, comprising a conforming elementadapted to substantially conform to the anatomy of said subject; and asensing apparatus flexibly coupled to said support element, said sensingapparatus comprising a combined electrical and mechanical interface,said sensing apparatus adapted to be at least initially aligned intoposition over an artery of said living subject without utilizing anyadditional alignment apparatus; wherein said combined electrical andmechanical interface comprises one or more features adapted to mate saidsensing apparatus to a host device.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16,wherein said combined interface of said sensing apparatus comprise atleast a plurality of electrical conductors disposed on at least oneprinted circuit board.
 18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein saidsupport element further comprises an alignment element adapted to assistin the alignment of said sensing apparatus over said artery.
 19. Theapparatus of claim 18, wherein said alignment element comprises at leastone arrow, said arrow being adapted to align with at least a pointassociated with an artery of said subject.
 20. The apparatus of claim16, wherein said sensing apparatus is flexibly coupled to said supportelement via (i) a substantially resilient suspension loop encircling atleast a portion of said sensing apparatus, and (ii) one or moreassociated suspension arms joining said loop to said support element.21. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a second supportelement adapted to stabilize said sensing apparatus.
 22. Apparatususeful for non-invasively measuring at least one hemodynamic parameterfrom the blood vessel of a living subject, comprising: a sensor assemblycomprising: a biasing element; a pressure sensor; and a connectoradapted to electrically connect to a recessed portion of a sensorassembly actuator; and a substantially flexible frame element adaptedto: flexibly support said sensor assembly, said support further enablingsaid sensor assembly to be moved by an actuator substantially withinsaid frame element; at least partly conform to the anatomy of saidsubject proximate said blood vessel; and provide an optical alignmentfeature to aid an operator in placing said apparatus on said subject.23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein said sensor assembly furthercomprises a multi-layered housing element, said housing element adaptedto encase at least a portion of said connector.
 24. The apparatus ofclaim 23, wherein said electrical connection between said connector andsaid actuator is accomplished via one or more friction fit featuresdisposed on said housing element or said frame.
 25. The apparatus ofclaim 22, wherein said connector comprises a plurality of electricalconductors disposed on a printed circuit board and adapted toelectrically connect with electrical components of said recessed portionof said actuator.
 26. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein said sensorassembly further comprises a substantially compliant contact materialadapted to interface between an active surface of said transducer andtissue of said subject.
 27. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein saidsensor assembly is physically connected to said frame element by atleast one substantially flexible serpentine arm.
 28. A hemodynamicsensor apparatus, comprising: a biasing element; a pressure sensor; aconnector, said connector comprising: one or more electronic datastorage devices; and a sensor electrical interface adapted toelectrically connect to a corresponding electrical interface that isdisposed at least partly within a recessed portion of a host device; anda housing element adapted to enclose at least a portion of saidelectrical interface; wherein said sensor electrical interface isadapted to mate with said corresponding interface simultaneously duringthe mechanical mating of said sensor apparatus to said host device. 29.The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said sensor electrical interface iscomprised of a plurality of electrical conductors disposed on at leastone printed circuit board and formed into a substantially pyramidalshape.
 30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said mechanical matingcomprises frictional coupling of one or more features disposed on saidhousing element with one or more corresponding features disposed on saidhost device.
 31. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said sensorapparatus is substantially elliptically shaped.
 32. The apparatus ofclaim 28, wherein a sensing face of said sensor is substantially coveredwith a pliable material adapted to couple said sensing face the surfaceof the skin of a living subject.
 33. A method of positioning at leastone sensor with respect to the anatomy of a living subject, comprising:providing said at least one sensor; determining a general location fordisposal of said at least one sensor; disposing said at least one sensorat said general location using only an alignment apparatus that iscoupled to said at least one sensor; coupling said at least one sensorto an actuator; and adjusting said general location of said at least onesensor using said actuator, said adjusting comprising implementing aposition location algorithm.
 34. The method of claim 33, wherein saidact of determining a general location for disposal of said at least onesensor comprises manually locating an artery of said subject.
 35. Themethod of claim 33, wherein said implementing a position locationalgorithm comprises at least one of: checking for a quiescent statehaving a substantially steady sensor output; or retracting said sensorand performing one or more applanation functions.
 36. A method ofoperating an apparatus adapted for non-invasively measuring one or morehemodynamic parameters of a living subject, said method comprising:disposing a sensor proximate to a blood vessel of said subject, saidsensor being substantially supported by a flexible coupling to a supportelement; coupling an actuator to said sensor; calibrating said sensor;and measuring said one or more hemodynamic parameters; wherein saidcoupling comprises electrically and mechanically coupling said sensor tosaid actuator in a single user action.
 37. The method of claim 36,wherein said act of disposing comprises disposing said support elementsuch that said sensor is generally proximate the blood vessel, and saidact of calibrating comprises using a positioning algorithm to adjust theposition of said sensor with respect to said blood vessel so that saidmeasuring is substantially optimized.